Lake County Public RecordsTennessee

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Lake County, Tennessee, had a population of 7,005. The median age was approximately 39.3 years. Gender distribution was about 55% male and 45% female, influenced by the presence of a men’s correctional facility. Racially, the population was 59.4% White, 36.2% Black or African American, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, and 2.1% identifying as two or more races or other groups.

Lake County, TN, had 3,373 registered voters in 2022. Elections held include federal, state, and local, with Republican and Democratic primaries. In the 2020 presidential election, Donald Trump won 75.2% (1,626 votes), while Joe Biden received 23.9% (516 votes). Polling locations include the Lake County Courthouse and Tiptonville City Hall. Common issues are economic development and education. Elections are administered by the Lake County Election Commission. Lake County leans heavily Republican, though both major parties are active. Voter turnout in 2020 was approximately 64%. For more details, visit the county’s election commission website.

Lake County, TN, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the overall crime rate was approximately 1,150 incidents per 100,000 residents, significantly below Tennessee’s average of 3,300 per 100,000. Violent crimes, such as assault and robbery, accounted for under 10% of reported cases; property crimes made up the majority. The Sheriff's Office regularly releases annual crime summaries, enhancing transparency. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity, contributing to the county’s safer environment.

Lake County, TN, serves about 1,000 students across 3 public schools, including Lake County High School. The graduation rate is approximately 90%, but only around 10% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average test scores often fall below the state average. School safety measures have improved, with a low incidence of major incidents reported in recent years. Adult education and GED programs are available locally. Specialized educational programs, including career and technical education, are limited but accessible through partnerships and regional initiatives.

As of 2022, Lake County, TN, had an employment rate of approximately 46%. Major industries include agriculture, healthcare, and education, with agriculture employing about 19% and healthcare 15% of workers. Most common occupations are in production (16%), office/administrative (13%), and management (11%). About 75% of residents commute outside the county for work, with Dyersburg and Union City as frequent destinations. The average commute time is 26 minutes.

Lake County, TN, has a homeownership rate of about 69%, with median home values around $91,000 and median rents near $640 per month. The county’s housing market remains affordable, though property values have increased by roughly 6% year-over-year as of 2023. Most homes are single-family houses, with few multi-unit buildings. Notable neighborhoods include Tiptonville and Ridgely, offering a small-town feel. Property taxes are low, with an average effective rate of 0.64%, well below the national average, providing cost-effective living for both owners and renters.